Can Kimchi be Frozen?
Kimchi is a popular Korean dish that pairs well with many different foods. But unless you don’t eat it right away, it should be stored properly. This raises a common question: can kimchi be frozen?
Kimchi can be frozen in order to extend the shelf life. When left at room temperature, it will begin to spoil in a few days. When sealed in a jar, it will last anywhere from 4-6 months in the freezer.
How Long Does Kimchi Last?
The shelf life of kimchi will vary, depending on a number of factors. Humidity, temperature, and the ingredients will impact how long your specific recipe will last.
In general, you can expect kimchi to last around 3-5 days when stored at room temperature. In the refrigerator, it will last anywhere from 2-3 months.
As kimchi begins to age, it will be exposed to more air. It will no longer be sealed the moment the jar comes off. Old kimchi will be sour to the taste, so pay attention to this warning sign.
Can You Freeze Kimchi?
As we briefly mentioned in the sections above, Kimchi can be frozen. It will usually last around 4-6 months in the freezer. However, the flavor will not be as fresh the longer you store it.
It should be noted that the texture of kimchi can also change in the freezer. Store bought kimchi and fresh kimchi will have a crisp finish. But vegetables tend to soften when frozen.
Even though this will extend the shelf life of the kimchi, it will have a slightly different taste. After it becomes defrosted, it can be watery, soft, and lack flavor fresh kimchi has.
How to Freeze Kimchi
It’s critical to freeze kimchi if you don’t plan on eating it right away. It doesn’t matter if you’re making kimchi at home, or buying it from the grocery store.
Make sure to follow each step below, if you want to extend the shelf life.
- Store – It’s best to freeze kimchi immediately after it has been made. If you purchased the food from a store, make sure to place it in a plastic container as soon as possible.
- Remove air – When it comes to freezing kimchi, the less air the better. This will keep the vegetables frozen for a longer period of time. It’s even better if you can use a vacuum sealer.
- Label – It also helps to label the container, or plastic bag you are using for storage. This will help you remember how old the kimchi is when it comes time to defrost.
- Separate – When freezing a large amount of kimchi, make sure to separate the food into smaller bags. This will make things much easier when you are ready to eat it.
- Consume by date – It should go without saying, but you should always eat the oldest foods first. This is why it’s so important to follow step three and label the freeze by date on your kimchi.
Further Reading
- Can You Eat Kimchi on Keto?
- Does Kimchi Have Alcohol?
- Can You Eat Kimchi Cold?
- Can You Make Kimchi With Regular Cabbage?
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